Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a cooperation agreement with Glydways to launch an automated transit network programme in Dubai.
The agreement introduces an automated transit network as part of Dubai’s public transport system and focuses on first- and last-mile journeys.
The agreement was signed by Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, and Mark Seeger, Co-Founder and CEO of Glydways. The signing took place during the World Governments Summit 2025.
Dubai RTA signs agreement with Glydways for automated transit network
The Glydways automated transit network is based on autonomous electric vehicles supported by artificial intelligence. The system operates on guideways that are separate from road traffic and can be elevated or deployed at ground level.
The guideways use lightweight structures to reduce impact on roads and utility networks.
The system provides on-demand point-to-point travel without stops and operates around the clock. Passengers can adjust climate control and entertainment systems.
The system produces zero local emissions and operates with safety and availability standards aligned with mass transit systems.
Each vehicle carries four to six passengers and operates at speeds of up to 50 km/h. Vehicles are equipped with 20 high-resolution LiDAR sensors, radar systems, and high-definition cameras. The system supports virtual platooning of more than 10 vehicles with a one-second headway.
New driverless system to be linked to Dubai Metro stations
The agreement includes studies for several routes. A pilot route is proposed between National Paints Metro Station and Bluewaters Island, covering 2.8 km.
Additional routes are planned to connect Dubai Metro stations with Madinat Jumeirah, Alserkal Avenue, Times Square Centre, and Dubai Festival City. The aim is to strengthen integration with the Dubai Metro network.
The system is designed to transport more than 20,000 passengers per hour in both directions. RTA stated that the system could reduce capital costs by up to 90% and operating costs by up to 70% compared to other transport modes.
“The agreement comes in line with the leadership’s directives to strengthen Dubai’s global leadership in adopting smart and sustainable mobility solutions and expanding the implementation of innovative transport modes. This supports quality of life, enhances the efficiency of the public transport system, and reinforces its integration with future mobility modes,” Al Tayer said in a statement.
“RTA is keen to collaborate with leading global companies and innovative start-ups to explore high-impact solutions that facilitate the movement of residents and visitors, and provide flexible and safe options for first- and last-mile journeys, in line with the urban and economic growth witnessed by Dubai,” he added.
Glydways was founded in 2016 and develops automated transit networks using autonomous electric vehicles operating on dedicated guideways. The company provides systems designed for deployment in urban areas and offers on-demand passenger services at set fares.
“This collaboration underscores Dubai’s global standing as an open laboratory for testing future mobility solutions and a leading environment for the deployment of smart and sustainable transport solutions,” Mark Seeger, Founder and Co-CEO of Glydways further explained.
“Glydways represents a new form of mobility designed to support seamless movement between neighbourhoods. Launching the system in Dubai marks a milestone in the company’s journey, and Bluewaters Island provides the ideal environment to showcase our network’s ability to deliver high-capacity, on-demand transport at lower cost and with an enhanced passenger experience. This project demonstrates how cities can scale sustainable and financially viable transport solutions,” he added.
